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Alwen Reservoir  | Llyn Brenig (NRW)

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About

The first thing you notice on arriving at the Alwen car park is the huge dam which sits astride the reservoir - the starting point for a seven mile trail around Alwen reservoir that can be followed by walkers and cyclists.

The trail goes through forest and moorland and there are far-reaching views over the reservoir. The reservoir and dam were constructed in the early 20th century to provide water for the port of Birkenhead.

The conifer forests around the reservoir form part of Hiraethog Forest and were planted to replenish timber supplies following the First World War.

Cyclists and walkers can also follow a link route from Alwen reservoir to nearby Llyn Brenig where there is a visitor centre with café and toilets.The Alwen Trail was formally opened on the 21st July 2006 creating new access for walkers and cyclists to enjoy the Denbigh Moor.

The easy-to-follow, waymarked, circular route around the Alwen Reservoir is approximately 7.5 miles (11 Km) You will follow forestry tracks and paths along the water’s edge and upto the moorland of Mynydd Hiraethog. The scenery around the reservoir is wonderfully varied with a beautiful section along the waters edge, from the position high on the moorlands there are stunning landscape views.

Along the way you will encounter 6 illustrated panels, providing information of the wildlife, culture and folk tales associated with the area, including the story of ‘Freckled Fairy Cow’.

Many reminders from the past are scattered along the trail; for the nature lovers there are rare species of Birds, Insects and the elusive Red Squirrels. Links have also been created to the established, nearby Brenig Trail, providing 20 miles of continuous walking and cycling for all abilities, particularly suitable for families.

Llyn Brenig

At Llyn Brenig you can enjoy tasty snacks in the Dw^r Cymru/Welsh Water visitor centre and take in views of the lakes, moorland and forest, choose from a number of trails for walkers and mountain bikers, or try the playground.

Alwen Forest

Just south west of Ruthin, Hiraethog forest extends to over 6000 hectares (15000 acres). This is a productive working forest but with plenty of space for activities. Species include a mix of Norway spruce, pines and larch.

The Alwen Trail is an enjoyable and pleasant walk through a variety of woodland habitats around the Alwen Reservoir. This is a shared use trail which may be used by walkers, horses and cyclists.

Book Tickets

Facilities

Accessibility

  • Disabled access
  • Disabled toilets

Catering

  • On-site catering
  • On-site light refreshments
  • Picnic site

Children

  • Children welcome

Parking

  • Free Parking

Property Facilities

  • Dogs Accepted
  • Gift shop
  • Public toilets

Routes

  • Description of route - Easy circular route around the Alwen Reservoir
  • Length of route (miles) - 8

Target Markets

  • Accepts groups

Map & Directions

Road Directions

Follow the A5 to Cerrigydrudion and then take the B4501 north from there to the Alwen Reservoir Natural Resources Wales car park on the left shortly after the Pont yr Alwen junction. Alternatively take the B4501 from Denbigh. The turning is on the right after the visitor centre.

OS Grid Reference: SH955530

Alwen Reservoir | Llyn Brenig (NRW)

Type:Nature Trail

Alwen Reservoir | Llyn Brenig (NRW), Hiraethog Forest, LL21 9TT

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